Italian Penicillin Soup is a cozy dish packed with rich flavors! It’s made with nourishing broth, tender chicken, and hearty veggies that will warm you up in no time.
This soup really is like a hug in a bowl! I love how simple it is to make—just throw everything in a pot and let it simmer. Perfect for chilly days!”
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing vegetables. You can substitute it with avocado oil or even butter if you prefer a richer flavor.
Onion: A finely chopped medium onion gives depth to the soup. If you’re out of onions, shallots or leeks could work as substitutes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides wonderful flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can be a good substitute, using about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove.
Carrots & Celery: These veggies add sweetness and crunch. You can swap them with bell peppers or even frozen mixed vegetables if needed.
Chicken Broth: Low sodium broth is best for controlling salt levels. If you prefer vegetarian, vegetable broth works well too.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is convenient. For a vegetarian version, try using chickpeas or tofu instead!
Orzo Pasta: This adds heartiness. You could substitute with ditalini or any small pasta. Quinoa or rice could also work if you want a gluten-free option.
Herbs: Dried oregano, thyme, and basil are fragrant and flavorful. Fresh herbs can be substituted for a brighter taste—just use triple the amount of fresh herbs.
How Do You Make Sure Your Orzo is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking orzo just right is vital to avoid it becoming mushy. Here are some tips:
- Always check the pasta package for cooking times. Orzo generally takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Add the orzo when your soup is simmering to keep the heat just right.
- Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving.
Following these steps will ensure your orzo cooks perfectly every time, making your soup a delightful bowl of comfort!
How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, shredded
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Italian Penicillin Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. So, in just about 30 minutes, you can have a wholesome and delicious soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Veggies:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the finely chopped onion, chopped carrots, and celery. Sauté them together until they become soft and fragrant, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Garlic for Flavor:
Once the veggies have softened, toss the minced garlic into the pot. Cook this for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
3. Bring on the Broth:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and raise the heat until it reaches a boil. This is when the soup really starts to come together!
4. Chicken and Herbs Time:
Once the broth is boiling, stir in the shredded chicken along with the dried oregano, thyme, and basil. This will give the soup its incredible flavors.
5. Cook the Orzo:
Lower the heat to a simmer and add the orzo pasta to the pot. Let everything cook together for about 8-10 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
6. Season to Perfection:
Give your soup a taste and add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. This is where you can really adjust the flavors to your preference!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This soup is best enjoyed hot!
Now you have a warm and comforting bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup that is perfect for any day! Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Pasta in This Soup?
Absolutely! While orzo is a great choice, you can use any small pasta like ditalini, shells, or even gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the specific pasta you’re using.
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just reheat it on the stove or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to cool the soup down before sealing to prevent condensation.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce when serving. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can be tossed in at the end for additional brightness!